1983 320i WITH BAD GAS LEAK. WHAT TO DO?

[grant1856]

When I am driving the smell of gas in the car is overpowering. I have looked for but been unable to find an obvious leak. I removed and bypassed the charcoal filter as it was old and rotting but that wasn't it.

The next time I filled up I realized I had lost about 2 gallons under the car. I looked to find it dripping down from what appeared to be the tank or a cover of the gas tank.

What I want to know is, is the big piece under the car that looks like the gas tank actually the tank or is it a protective cover to keep it from being damaged? Can I remove it without removing the whole gas tank? I suspect on the top of it there is some bad connection or leak as the car does not spill gas unless I fill it up.

Has anyone had experience with this?

Grant in Santa Monica

[Jack Dabsy]

Have you tried removing the trunk liner to see if there is an inspection hatch...
Also have a good look at the filler-neck and the vent-pipe ;-)

[79fjord323]

Sounds like you need to remove your back seat and find the access panel on the left side, pull your sending unit and replace your O ring.

[Flotsam]

I got rid of my E21 ages ago, but I thought the gas tank was in two parts and there was a hose connecting those. That seemed to be the source of many leaks as I recall.

[Flotsam]

I remembered correctly . I have a page of the factory service manual showing the hose. check this first. PM me if you want a copy of the manual